This compilation of early 10,000 Maniacs releases doubles as an overview of how the New York group’s globally minded yet distinctly American folk pop shape-shifted over the years. “Planned Obsolescence,” which appeared on their 1982 debut EP, blends dub’s spaced-out vibes with Natalie Merchant’s spoken-sung future visions; “Pour de Chirico,” from their 1983 album, Secrets of the I Ching, adds reggae’s lilting rhythms to the band’s gently insistent hum, giving Merchant a chance to flaunt her robust alto.
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